Sean Chandler and Shepherd Brass Band is one of four shortlistees for the 2026 RPS Inspiration Award. We are welcoming public votes to choose the winner – voting is open until 11am on Monday 2 February 2026. The winner will be announced at the RPS Awards on Thursday 12 March at Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall.
York’s Shepherd Brass Band has a rich history dating back to 1903. Today, the group encompasses six bands and over 200 players, nurturing participation and excellence from grassroots to competitive playing. The Championship Band is widely recognised as one of the finest bands in the North East of England, collaborating with other renowned bands such as the Cory Band, and giving regular performances nationally and locally at the University of York Concert Series. The award-winning Youth Band is renowned for its vibrant rehearsals and high standards, comprising over 50 talented young musicians who have progressed through the Academy Band for children and adult learners.
At the heart of all this is principal cornet Sean Chandler, a Deaf musician who devotes so much time and imagination to coaching different ensembles within the Shepherd Brass Band family. Sean leads the ‘I Can Play with Brass Roots’ initiative in partnership with the National Centre for Early Music in York, that welcomes and supports d/Deaf children and their families to develop their skills on a range of brass instruments and play music in a band environment. Notably this year, children from Brass Roots joined members at all levels of the Shepherd Brass Band on stage at York’s Theatre Royal. 170 players of all ages shared the stage – demonstrating that music-making is for everyone – in a performance of a new work by composer Liz Lane, specially-commissioned for Shepherd Brass Band.
‘Sean is an inspirational musician who fills a room with brightness, energy and enthusiasm. His leadership during our sectional rehearsals has been invaluable. He has nurtured a fantastic rapport and relationship with the band, bringing his talent and helping guide the players to achieve fantastic things. Over the many times he has supported our Shepherd Youth Band, he has brought a wealth of advice and tips for the players, always expertly delivered and with young people's interests at the centre of what he does.’
Craig, band member
‘I joined ‘I Can Play with Brass Roots’ – the music group for deaf children run by Sean. I started to play cornet, and Sean really built my confidence, as it’s hard to learn the notes when you are deaf. I was given the chance at the Christmas concerts to sign in BSL while the band played, and I was proud to win Player of the Year and the solo competition. In April, I moved into the Shepherd Academy Band. Everyone involved has been so supportive… I enjoy music so much.’
Lexi, young musician
The RPS Inspiration Award is generously supported by Stainer & Bell.
